This tasty dish features fresh zucchini and squash, tossed in buttery garlic goodness. It’s light, healthy, and oh-so-simple to whip up in no time!
If you’re like me, a little garlic makes everything better! I love serving this alongside grilled chicken for a colorful and delicious meal. You’ll feel great eating it! 🥒🧄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This is the star of the dish! Zucchini has a mild flavor and tender texture. You can replace it with yellow squash or even eggplant if you’re in the mood for a twist.
Yellow Squash: Like zucchini, yellow squash adds color and a slightly sweet taste. If yellow squash isn’t available, feel free to use more zucchini or try summer squash varieties.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives a rich flavor, but you can switch it for ghee or vegan butter for a dairy-free option. I personally love the taste of butter in this dish—it’s just hard to beat!
Garlic: Fresh garlic infuses a lovely aroma and flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch—about 1/4 teaspoon per clove should do.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Sautéed Zucchini and Squash?
Sautéing zucchini and squash might seem straightforward, but there are a couple of tricks to get them just right!
- Start by preheating your skillet. The oil and butter should be hot but not smoking before adding garlic.
- Cook the garlic briefly to enhance its flavor, but keep an eye on it—burnt garlic can turn bitter.
- Add the zucchini and squash once the garlic is fragrant. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.
- Look for tender veggies with a golden-brown color; this usually takes about 7-10 minutes.
Remember, a hotter pan means a better sear, but don’t overcrowd the skillet, or they’ll steam instead of roast! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Low Carb Garlic Butter Zucchini & Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium yellow squash, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful low-carb dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s super quick, making it a perfect side for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing the zucchini and yellow squash under cold water. Then, using a sharp knife, dice them into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch chunks. This helps them cook evenly.
2. Heat the Butter and Oil:
In a large skillet, add the olive oil and unsalted butter. Heat over medium-high until the butter melts and starts to sizzle. This will create a delicious base for our veggies!
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the hot skillet. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown—burnt garlic can taste bitter!
4. Cook the Zucchini and Squash:
Now, add the diced zucchini and yellow squash to the skillet. Stir everything together to coat the veggies with the garlic butter. Keep cooking, stirring occasionally, for about 7-10 minutes until the vegetables are tender and have a lovely golden-brown color.
5. Season and Serve:
Once the zucchini and squash are cooked, season with salt and black pepper to taste. If you want, sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top for an extra burst of flavor and color! Serve warm, and enjoy this veggie-packed dish as a delicious side or even a light main course!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can mix in other veggies like bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose, as some may take longer to become tender.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this dish dairy-free, simply replace the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or olive oil. It will still be delicious without sacrificing flavor!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the zucchini and squash ahead of time and sauté them just before serving. You can also reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of olive oil if needed to refresh the dish.
What Should I Serve with Garlic Butter Zucchini & Squash?
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or even on top of a salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a protein like chicken or tofu for a well-rounded, low-carb dinner!
